Calceolaria Seeds commonly known as “pocketbook flower” or “lady’s purse,” is a beautiful flowering plant that can be grown from pelleted seeds. These seeds are coated with a layer of material to make them larger, easier to handle, and plant. Here’s a general guide on how to grow Calceolaria from pelleted seeds:
1. Start Seeds Indoors
- Timing: Start your pelleted Calceolaria seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage. Make sure they are clean to avoid disease.
- Soil: Use a fine, well-draining seed-starting mix. Calceolaria seeds need a light, airy environment to germinate.
2. Sowing the Seeds
- Surface Sowing: Gently press the pelleted seeds into the surface of the soil. You don’t need to bury them because they need light to germinate.
- Spacing: Space the seeds evenly to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to weak seedlings.
- Watering: Mist the surface gently with water to avoid displacing the seeds. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
3.Calceolaria Seeds Germination Conditions
- Temperature: Keep the seeds in a warm spot with a temperature of around 65–70°F (18–21°C).
- Light: Place the tray in a bright location or under grow lights, as Calceolaria seeds need light to germinate.
- Humidity: Cover the seed tray with a clear plastic lid or plastic wrap to maintain high humidity, but allow some airflow to prevent mold.
4. Care After Germination
- Once the seeds have germinated (usually in 10-20 days), remove the cover and allow the seedlings to grow in a well-lit spot.
- Watering: Continue to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Thinning: Once the seedlings have a couple of leaves, thin them to avoid crowding.
5. Transplanting Outdoors
- Hardening Off: About a week before transplanting, begin hardening off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
- Location: Choose a location with partial shade, as Calceolaria prefers cooler temperatures and protection from direct sunlight.
- Planting: Transplant the seedlings into the garden once the danger of frost has passed. Space them around 6–8 inches apart.
6. Care After Planting
- Watering: Keep the plants well-watered, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging.
- Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth, but avoid over-fertilizing.
Tips:
- Calceolaria is sensitive to extreme temperatures, so avoid planting them in very hot climates.
- They thrive in rich, slightly acidic soil.
- Keep an eye on pests like aphids and spider mites, which can affect young plants.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.